Atomization separating and silencing apparatus and method

ABSTRACT

A modular, integrated, combination air purification and aroma diffuser includes a UV and catalytic oxidation germicidal cell and multiple filtrations as pre-treatment of air diffusing essential oils or other liquids as ultra-fine droplets entrained in airflow into enclosed, habitable spaces. Liquid microbicide, insecticide, fumigant, or aroma therapy is kept cleaner by eradication of microbes. Comparatively larger droplets are separated out and recycled to the reservoir after initial atomization. An electrical module, between a purifier and filters upstream and a diffuser downstream, includes a pump, a fan, and a controller for both. Staged, double-eduction, triple-separation processes include a micro-cyclone for quiet, well diffused flow of ultra-fine droplets.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/297,542, filed Oct. 19, 2018; which is a divisional of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/260,520, filed Apr. 24, 2014, now issued as U.S.Pat. No. 9,480,769 on Nov. 1, 2016; which is a continuation-in-part ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/854,545, filed Apr. 1, 2013, nowU.S. Pat. No. 9,415,130, issued Aug. 16, 2016; both of which are herebyincorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND Field of the Invention

This invention relates to aroma diffusion and more particularly, tonovel systems and methods for atomizing and diffusing essential oils inenclosed habitable spaces.

Background Art

Germicidal protection technology exists in sanitary industrialapplications, such as restroom air germicidal protection, toilet bowland tank purification systems, odor-control pellets, tablets, atomizers,and the like. These systems may be passive, operating strictly on vaporpressure, or maybe electrically powered, such as by heaters, lamps,fans, and the like.

Likewise, it has been found suitable to use fragrances in associationwith many cleaning products. These vary from kitchen soaps for dishes,to floor cleaning materials, carpet cleaners, and the like. That is, ingeneral, it is known to put fragrances in cleaning systems. Accordingly,cleaning solvents, soaps, detergents, and the like may includefragrances leaving residual fragrance following cleaning. Nevertheless,the intention of the cleaning product itself is to either clean up“dirt” or “soil” from furniture, floors, walls, curtains, and the like,or to otherwise scrub away foreign matter.

On the other hand, disinfectants, antimicrobial materials, antisepticmaterials, and the like are also used. For example, hospitals, are acase in point in which numerous germicidal liquids, vapors, pads, wipes,tools, and the like are used to wipe down surfaces, floors, restrooms,toilet facilities, sinks, and the like in order to control microbes suchas germs, bacteria, viruses, and the like.

Meanwhile, an industry has developed around aromatherapy. Aromatherapyis typically directed to the infusion of an atmospheric environment,such as a room, home, kitchen, store, or the like with a scent selectedfrom, for example, a fragrance or an essential oil, such as citrus,lavender, lemon, ginger, cinnamon, and so forth. This may be done byburning candles, heating a wax carrier that is infused with the oil, orthe like. In other embodiments, essential oils may be vaporized inatomizers and distributed into a room.

Atomization creates a Gaussian distribution of droplets of a liquidentrained in a stream of air. The larger droplets tend to launchfarther, once accelerated to the speed of an entraining air flow, andthen drop or settle out in still air rather than remaining airborne as afine mist would do. Thus they land on and subsequently damage furnitureand other surrounding objects.

Moreover, they are less effective, evaporating more slowly because theyhave a lower surface-to-volume ratio than comparatively smaller dropletsand mist particles. Thus, if dispersed by an atomizer or diffuser, theymay waste liquid being atomized, with less effect, while creating damageand a mess to be cleaned up.

It would be an advance in the art to provide an improved system foratomization.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing, in accordance with the invention as embodiedand broadly described herein, a method and apparatus are disclosed inone embodiment of the present invention as including a system mayinclude an electrical module, flanked by an ultraviolet germicidalmodule, a filtration module, and a diffuser module. In this integratedsystem, for example, air is drawn from an ambient surrounding thesystem, into the germicidal module. There, an ultraviolet light sourceoperates directly, and on a catalytic screen to provide catalyticoxidation of live organisms, such as viruses, bacteria, and the like.Accordingly, the germicidal module draws in air, purifying that air byeradicating microbes, such as bacteria and viruses.

Meanwhile, a filtration system upstream from the germicidal module maydo an initial screening for macroscopic particles, such as dust, and thelike. Downstream from the germicidal module, a filtration module, ormultiple filtration modules, may then capture any residual materials,such as the destroyed microbes, smaller particles of dust, and the like.In certain embodiments, the filtration module may include differenttypes of filters, different porosities of filters, filters containing aporosity size of sieve, and the like. Otherwise, filter media such aspaper, fiberglass, non woven fiber, foam, oil foam, oiled bathfilaments, synthetic fiber filaments, metal filaments, coated filaments,or the like may be used as filter media in the filter module.

Downstream from the filter module is an electrical module that includesseveral functions. For example, a controller for operating the time,including operational cycle or duty cycle time, the delay time betweenoperational duty time cycles, the volume of flow of an aromaticmaterial, as well as bulk or bypass air control may be included in acontrol panel. Meanwhile, a display having other controls for setting upand operating a system in accordance with the invention may be provided.

The electrical module may also include a fan module for providing bulkair, most of which is bypass air. By bypass air is meant air that is notdriven through a diffuser to participate in the diffusion of an aromaticliquid. Typically, the fan will provide the bulk transfer of air intothe entire system, including filtration systems, as well as that passedinto the diffuser system to an outlet. Typically, a small portion ofthat same air, treated by the germicidal module and the filtrationmodule, will be drawn into a pump or compressor.

The entire system may be enclosed in a case suitable for use as astanding unit on a support surface, such as a shelf or floor. A handlemay provide for carrying, suspending, or otherwise positioning thesystem overhead in a habitable space.

By habitable space is meant space that can be occupied by a livinganimal, such as a person, cattle, fowl, or the like. Thus, the habitablespace may or may not be dwelling space. Habitable spaces may includechicken coops, other poultry sheds, cattle barns, milking parlors,rooms, halls, or the like. It is preferable in most environments to useair purification and aromatic treatment of environments in enclosedspaces, rather than wide open spaces where bulk transfer by atmosphericbreezes may substantially reduce the efficiency of such a system.

In general, a case or housing around a system in accordance with theinvention may be selectively openable, closable, lockable, and so forthin order to provide security, tamper-proofing, reliability, limitationson access to the controls and adjustment parameters, and so forth.

In certain embodiments, the housing may also include apertures, orrelief portions that may be readily transformed into apertures bypenetrating therethrough with fasteners. In certain embodiments, therelief portions are thinned wall portions that eliminate open aperturesunused in the housing. These provide for creation of apertures bypenetration by a fastener through a comparatively thin wall coincidentwith the outer surface of the housing, and provided with relief interiorthereto. Thus, the hole is not a through hole, but is a very thinlywalled blind hole.

In certain embodiments, the apparatus in accordance the invention may besuspended overhead, may be carried, may be set on a surface to supportit, or may be mounted to a wall. In any event, the system may be used inany or all such configurations.

The pump or compressor will then compress that portion of air drawn outof the principal flow, and pass it into a diffuser. Diffusers inaccordance with the invention have been described in U.S. Pat. No.7,878,418 issued Feb. 1, 2011 to Sevy, and U.S. Pat. No. 8,047,813issued on Nov. 1, 2011 to Sevy, both of which are hereby incorporated byreference in their entireties.

In addition to the diffuser system as described in the foregoing patentapplications, with the pumps or compressors disclosed therein, a systemin accordance with the invention may include an improved diffuser nozzlesystem including a micro-cyclone.

The micro-cyclone operates as a channel, enclosed, and spiraling upwarda full height of the channel, while circumnavigating or spiraling aroundthe internal diameter of the diffuser housing. It traverses an angulardistance of from about 180 to about 400 degrees. Typically, a design setpoint is about 330 degrees for the total swept angle of themicro-cyclone. The micro-cyclone tends to operate as a cyclone separatorto remove comparatively larger diameter, heavier droplets from thestream of entrained and diffused vapor droplets in the compressedairflow.

The micro-cyclone may have a dam operating as a baffle prior to airexit, further providing direction changes, small apertures, and the likein order to limit sound and strip off heavy droplets. It may provide agap therein to allow backflow of any coalesced liquid that has beenstripped off against a wall of the micro-cyclone or dam.

Another benefit of a system in accordance with the invention is anadapter that adapts a fitting of the diffuser to a matched fitting of asupply reservoir. Supply reservoirs and fittings may come in all typesof sizes and shapes. In order to accommodate an arbitrary selection of asupply reservoir, various adapters are provided in accordance with theinvention to interface with the reservoir of substantially any supplier.A user may obtain a supply of aromatic liquid from any source, and usethe container therefrom, or fill a generic reservoir, fitted by theadapter to the diffuser. This improves over conventional systems thatrely on canister reservoirs having integrated diffusers. These,typically, are proprietary, and lock out the ability of an owner oroperator to choose a source of supply, a reservoir style or type. Theinvention provides an economical escape from the investment in aproprietary cartridge replacement history required to operate adiffuser.

The system described hereinabove also may include a shroud to conductthe primary or bulk airflow away from the diffuser, entraining therein,through eduction by the principal flow drawing in the diffuser flow,diffused liquid droplets. The mixed flow passes out of a directionalshroud, through louvers or a grill into a habitable space.

In general, a system in accordance with the invention may operate bydrawing in environmental air from an enclosed space to be treated,filtering that air initially, followed by a germicidal exposure, such asby a catalytic oxidation, an ultraviolet irradiation or both energysources. Catalysis may occur typically on a metal plate or screen,followed by filtering through multiple filter media modules to removeresidual, comparatively smaller inorganic particles, as well asdestroyed microbes, and the like.

Bypassing the diffuser by a certain portion of the air flow permitscooling of electrical module containing controls, pumps, fans, and thelike. A fan, for example, may be driving the principal (bulk) flow ofair. The principal flow may thereby cool the motor of the fan, as wellas the motors in the air pumps acting as compressors. Meanwhile,electrical controls and electronics may be cooled by the principalairflow, most of which end up bypassing the diffuser.

After cooling electrical equipment in the electrical module, theprincipal flow of air may pass on into a chamber that contains thediffuser module. In fact, the chamber containing the diffuser andreservoir may be considered a part of the diffuser module of the system.

Meanwhile, an extracted flow taken from the principal flow may becompressed by a pump, compressor, or the like to be passed into adiffuser. A diffuser may draw in air, or induct air into the pump,compress the air, then educt (entrain by eduction; momentum transfer) anessential oil or other liquid as comminuted (atomized) droplets, intothe high speed, high pressure flow passing into a nozzle from a feedline. Following atomization, a series of baffles, including themicro-cyclone discussed above may result in a separation of thecomparatively larger particles from the flow. Thus, only particlessufficiently small to flow with the airflow and not settle out forminutes remain.

Overly large particles provide a number of problems. First, they are awaste of an expensive product, the liquid, such as aromatic oil,disinfection, biocide, microbicide, fragrance, or the like. Meanwhile,they also result in too rapid a settling time in the environment. Theratio of their weight to drag forces do not result in a dwell time overa minute, or preferably five to ten minutes, or more preferably ten tothirty minutes. Thus, rather than remaining in the air, until they haveevaporated or been otherwise incorporated into the atmosphere of theenclosed environment, they may instead settle out relatively quickly,onto surfaces, furniture, floors, into HVAC systems, or the like. It hasbeen found suitable to take out the largest droplets by baffling, themicro-cyclone, and so forth.

Following this separation, eduction of the diffuser flow into theprincipal flow is conducted by passing the principal flow up around thediffuser, in the same direction as the diffused, liquid-droplet-laden,diffusion stream, toward a shroud for exit through an outlet. The outletmay be movable, such as rotatable, to provide for directing a stream ofthe principal flow of air, purified, treated with a liquid, such as anaromatic oil. The stream may be aimed in a direction to promote a longentrainment plume into a room.

For example, by providing a substantial flow, out a hydraulic diameter(hydraulic diameter is four times the area divided by the wettedperimeter of an opening) of the unit, a jet or plume may be extend adistance of over twenty outlet diameters may typically be valuablebefore the outgoing airstream of principal flow has decayed toinsignificance.

In certain embodiments, selection of the liquid to be contained withinthe reservoir of the diffuser system provides additional germicidalaction by the diffused liquid droplets in the enclosed, habitable spaceor environment. The germicidal module provides for purification of theprincipal flow, including air to be run through the diffuser. Meanwhile,the filtration assists in keeping a clean system without dust particles,and with no collection of live microbes in any location in the system.For example, the germicidal module is upstream from the filtrationmodule to assure that a filtration system containing moisture and livemicrobes is not permitted to exist nor persist in the system.

However, downstream, the system persists in its germicidal activitieswhen the proper liquids are selected. Antibacterial liquids,antimicrobial liquids, disinfectants, essential oils that haveantimicrobial effects, or the like may be used, combined, or otherwiseplaced in the diffuser module. Such provide downstream antibacterial orantimicrobial activities in the treated space.

In certain embodiments, the diffusers may draw from multiple reservoirs.In other embodiments, multiple diffusers may be used in the diffusionmodule. Nevertheless, it has been found suitable in most environments,to use a single diffuser with a reservoir filled with a suitable liquid.That liquid may be a combined mixture of various liquids in apreselected volumetric fraction suitable to the environmental space tobe treated.

A system in accordance with the invention may be used in numerousenvironments. For example, aroma therapists provide systems for creationof an environment associated with the therapy. The essential oil orother liquids used in the diffuser may be part and parcel of, or may bean adjunct to, a particular exercise, treatment, or the like. Similarly,massage therapists may use the system for relaxation. Naturopaths mayuse the system for various respiratory therapy, such as the use ofeucalyptus, raven sara, rosemary, or the like. Similarly, peppermint maybe used as a relaxant. Likewise, other alternatives may be used for painor physiological treatments.

Reiki practitioners may use essential oils that are not justcombinations of alcohols, phenols, and turpines, but may provide otheremotional or treatment benefits. Aromatherapy enthusiasts, such asretailers and consultants for oil sales companies require a dependablemethod to diffuse oils in demonstrations and work environments.Likewise, cosmetologists, hospitals, as discussed above, spas, and thelike may provide distribution of particular oils suited to specificneeds.

For example, essential oils such as lavender, marjoram, mandarin, palosanto, may be used for relaxation of anxiety or insomnia. Similarly,antifungal agents such as niaouli, tea tree, and the like may be usedfor manicure or pedicure treatments. Other essential oils such asgeranium, clary sage, ylang ylang, rose, jasmine, and the like may beused for mood improvements. Frankincense, lavender, helychrisum, or thelike may be used for facial treatments, tissue restoration, damageprevention for tissues, free radical scavenging, and the like.

Similarly, essential oils such as peppermint, ginger, and palo santo mayprovide other benefits. In educational environments, atomized diffusioninto classrooms may be used to make them more desirable, or to providevarious responses. Typically, black pepper, cardamom, eucalyptus,peppermint, rosemary, marjoram, basil, bergamot, lemon, lemongrass,verbena, and the like may be suitable. Also, thieves' oil is consideredto be a prophylactic for respiratory ailments and the like.

Meanwhile, events, retail outlets, shopping malls, casinos, grocerystores, airlines, hotels, and the like may use a system in accordancewith the invention to provide a particular area with an aroma that masksother less inviting odors, tends to increase a particular state of mindamong customers, or both. For example, the smell of coffee upon entranceinto a retail establishment, such as a book store with a coffee shop, ora grocery store with a deli, and the like has been found to increasecoffee sales by hundreds of percentage points. Likewise, scent brandingspecialists may use the system in order to determine the best ambientscent for anything from a retail establishment, to a car dealership, orthe like.

The entertainment industry, real estate agencies, banks, veterinaryhospitals, pet stores, sporting events, and the like may diffuse scentscalculated and tested to provide suitable responses. Meanwhile, theentire hospitality industry is in need of suitable, reliable, easilymaintainable systems to provide aromatic environments. Thus, cruiseships, airlines, ski resorts, fitness centers, amusement parks,theaters, resorts, and the like may use a system in accordance with theinvention.

In certain environments, pest control may be effected. Proper selectionprovides a fumigation system for bed bugs, other bugs, viruses, andother microbes. For example, cedar, peppermint, clove, and lemon, havebeen shown to eradicate various types of bugs and pests in hotel rooms.A system in accordance with the invention with handle and feet to renderit portable, allows a chamber made to effectively provide anextermination function while cleaning hotel rooms. Exterminators mayfind essential oils safer and nontoxic as methods as getting rid ofpests using a system in accordance with invention.

Meanwhile, other processing plants, particularly food processing plantswhere avoidance of bacteria is important may be benefited by a system inaccordance with the invention. Individual homeowners and businesses maylikewise benefit. Care centers, chiropractic centers, other medicalentities like hospitals, dentists, hospice sponsors, home healthcareprofessionals, and the like may use a system in accordance with theinvention to provide essential oil treatments, medical treatments,environmental germicidal treatments, and the like.

Medication processes, trauma mitigation, property protection, and thelike may be benefited by liquids chosen to be attractive, or repulsive.Similarly, training, such as law enforcement training where the smell ofgun powder, rancid or putrid smells, other uncomfortable or unfamiliarsmells, or the like which may affect judgment, may be used to createmore realistic environments for training.

Similarly, military training may benefit from soldiers trained in thepresence of selected odors contributing to a more realistic environment.As one of the five senses, the sense of smell is particularly acute inmany persons, and causes many sensations and reactions that are notordinarily achievable in maneuvers. A realistic situation includessight, sound, and smell for best training.

Similarly, livestock and poultry growers may use a system in accordancewith the invention for air purification, disinfectant, or antimicrobialaction, and the like.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing features of the present invention will become more fullyapparent from the following description and appended claims, taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that thesedrawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are,therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope, the inventionwill be described with additional specificity and detail through use ofthe accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a front, top quarter, perspective view of an apparatus inaccordance with the invention, showing the housing or case with the dooror cover open;

FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of the system, in the base portion ofthe case, absent the cover;

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the base portion of the housingfor a system in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the inside of the cover;

FIG. 5 is a front, top quarter, perspective view of a system inaccordance with the invention, in a closed and operable configuration;

FIG. 6 is a top, rear quarter, perspective view thereof;

FIG. 7 is an exploded, perspective view of a germicidal module from thesystem of FIGS. 1-6;

FIG. 8 is an exploded, perspective view of one embodiment of afiltration module of the system of FIGS. 1-6;

FIG. 9 is a front perspective view, partially cut away for visibility,of the electrical module of the system of FIGS. 1-6;

FIG. 10 is a rear, exploded, perspective view of the electrical moduleof FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a rear, perspective, exploded view of the frame of theelectrical module of FIGS. 9 and 10;

FIG. 12 is an exploded, perspective view of the components of thediffuser module in the system of FIGS. 1-19;

FIG. 13 is a front elevation view of the system of FIGS. 1-19;

FIG. 14 is a rear elevation view thereof;

FIG. 15 is a right end elevation view thereof;

FIG. 16 is a left end elevation view thereof;

FIG. 17 is a top plan view thereof;

FIG. 18 is a bottom plan view thereof; and

FIG. 19 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a process inaccordance with the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

It will be readily understood that the components of the presentinvention, as generally described and illustrated in the drawingsherein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of differentconfigurations. Thus, the following more detailed description of theembodiments of the system and method of the present invention, asrepresented in the drawings, is not intended to limit the scope of theinvention, as claimed, but is merely representative of variousembodiments of the invention. The illustrated embodiments of theinvention will be best understood by reference to the drawings, whereinlike parts are designated by like numerals throughout.

Referring to FIGS. 1-6, while referring generally to FIGS. 1-19, asystem 10 in accordance with the invention may be manufactured as amodular system, susceptible to user maintenance and repair, onsite.Moreover, a system 10 in accordance with the invention provides not onlyaroma diffusion or diffusion of an operating liquid atomized to beintroduced into an atmosphere of an enclosed space, but alsopurification of the air used to drive the system 10, and to atomize theliquid. As used herein, the liquid will typically be an oil, such as anessential oil used for aromatherapy, antibacterial treatment of a space,or the like. Such liquids may include oils, alcohols, other solvents,antimicrobials, and the like. Such liquids may also be combinations ofvarious components, in order to obtain multiple benefits from a singleliquid combination.

In the illustrated embodiment, the system 10 may be driven by anelectrical module 11 that contains the powered components of the system10. The entire system 10 may be enclosed in a housing 12 that includes abase 14 and door 16 that close together in a clamshell-like arrangement.For example, a germicidal module 13 may fit in the base 14, upstreamfrom the electrical module 11. Meanwhile, downstream, through a collar15, formed as a relief 15 or collar 15 in the base 14 and door 16, maybe an exit port for treated air.

In the illustrated embodiment, a retainer 17 or clip 17 may be formed onthe door 16, or on the base 14 to hold spare parts, replacementcomponents, and the like. For example, a holder for filter media may beused. However, more difficult items to locate may be such items astubes, which may wear, age, or the like. Thus, a retainer 17 or clip 17in the case 12, or multiple retainers 17, may be used to providereadily-accessible components, that may need replacement over time.

A lock 18 may be useful for multiple reasons. For example, tamperingwith controls may be expensive, damaging to the system 10, damaging tothe environment being treated by the system 10, or may be problematic,given the value of liquids that may be dispensed in the system 10. Thus,providing a lock 18 will assure that the base 14 and door 16 are lockedtogether and inaccessible by unauthorized persons. In one embodiment akey on a retractable line system 191 is hidden from view in the well 70of the base 14. Thus, a key is retracted into the well 70, not visibleto a casual observer, yet accessible to an authorized, knowledgeableperson servicing the system 10. Thus the lock 18 provides someprotection against tampering, while the key retractor 191 provides aspring-loaded, retractable line holding a key ring with a key available.Such retractable line systems are often worn by maintenance personnel asa retractable key ring on a belt-connected assembly as known in the art.

Filtration may be done upon intake, but also through a filter module 19positioned between the germicidal module 13, and the electrical module11 downstream therefrom. In the illustrated embodiment, the passage ofair is from an inlet 20 through a filter 22. Air passes then into thegermicidal module 13, followed by the filter module 19, and theelectrical module 11. The electrical module 11 is thereby cooled by theprincipal flow of air flowing through the system 10.

In the illustrated embodiment, the germicidal module 13 may include abaffle 23. The outer surface, or convex surface of the baffle 23 mayserve as an air baffle to redirect air into the chamber 24. The chamber24 or ultraviolet chamber 24 operates by a light source 26 emitting anultraviolet light irradiation. Typically, the light source 26 will emita strong ultraviolet wavelength of light that is reflected from theconcave side of the baffle 23 as a reflector 23. That is, the baffle 23may operate as a baffle 23 for air incoming from the inlet 20, but alsoon the opposite face thereof, operate as a reflector 23. Thus, a highlyreflective material, such as a metal, may be disposed on the back ordownstream face of the baffle 23.

Typically, the indirect light from the source, may thus be recycled, orrecaptured, by the reflector 23. In one embodiment, a catalytic screen28, such as a metal, or metallic-coated, screen may operate to ionizeoxygen. Ionized oxygen may result in free oxygen ions, but will oftenresult in creation of ozone, a combination of three atoms of oxygen,that is fundamentally unstable, and highly reactive. Thus, any microbe,such as a bacterium, virus, or the like, may be killed directly byultraviolet radiation, may be damaged or killed by oxidation by anoxygen ion near the catalytic screen 28, or may be influenced by both.One kill mechanism is typically pure radiation from the light source 26,whether direct or reflective. Another is chemical damage to a cellularorganism by oxygen ions. Oxygenation, or oxidation is effectively thesame effect as burning. The temperature may not be as high, but thechemical result is that of oxidation or consuming. Accordingly, thereaction of chemicals within a microbe can destroy the cell.

Referring to FIGS. 1-2, while referring generally to FIGS. 1-19, asystem 10 in accordance with the invention may include one or morefilters in a filter module 19. For example, in the illustratedembodiment, two sides of the filter module 19 are combined on a slide 29or center portion 29. The slide 29 operates as a frame 29 holding afilter 30 upstream, captured behind a grill 31, and a second filter 32downstream, captured by a grill 33. In the illustrated embodiment, thefilter 30 may have a mesh size smaller than the incoming filter 22, butlarger than that of the third level filter 32 downstream.

In the illustrated embodiment, various combinations of filters 22, 30,32 may be used. In certain embodiments, the grills 31, 33 may operate asframes, engaging the slide 29. The grills 31, 33 may be glued as aunitary system to the slide 29, all three being formed of similar orcompatible plastics. They may be solvent or adhesive bonded to oneanother. In other embodiments, brackets on the slide 29 may receive thegrills 31, 33 sliding thereinto, to form a unitary filtration module 19.

In certain embodiments, fibers treated with capture materials that willhold items that stay on impact may be suitable. In some embodiments, amat, bat, fiber, fabric, or the like may be used for the second filter32 in the filter module 19. For example, a folded paper filter, a foldedscreen, a folded glass fiber mesh, non woven fabric, or the like may beused. In any suitable embodiment, the power used to drive air or drawair through the filtration module 19 should be matched with the drag,caused by porosity or the size and number of apertures in the filters30, 32. One must be aware that the system 10 will adjust to match thepower requirements for airflow with the airflow and the filtrationcapacity. In certain embodiments, the filtration may be sub-micron in atleast one of the filters 30, 32. In other embodiments, the filtrationmay be done to sub micron sizes by a tortuous path, that does not havean affirmatively smaller aperture, but rather simply attaches and holdssuch particles.

A control system 34 may be contained within the electrical module 11.For example, in the illustrated embodiment, various control buttons 35may provide operational controls such as set up.

For example, in the illustrated embodiment, a set of control buttons 35may provide set up of the system, with information displayed on adisplay 37 in which the control buttons 35 are integrated. Meanwhile,placed thereabove, is a set of knobs 36 or controller knobs 36 thatcontrol the operation of the fan, the output volumetric flow of liquidfrom the diffuser, the delay time between operation in a less than a 100percent duty cycle, and the total run time in each individual cycle ofthe overall duty cycle.

Meanwhile, the buttons 35 associated with the display 37 may control forexample, a computer program selection. It may scroll through variousprogrammatic operational schemes. A selection button for setting orconfirming a particular setting, opening up settings for operation,closing settings as acceptable or confirmed, and the like may also beincluded.

Meanwhile, incremental buttons may be included for incrementing week,hour, minute, seconds, or the like on a clock for program timing.Meanwhile, a decrement button may be included for decrementing weeks,hours, minutes, or seconds of time. Meanwhile, there may be available abutton for erasing or backing over a previous selection, and the like.Typically, a reset key to return to a default position, or to return toa known location in the process of programming may be available as well.In certain embodiments, various on and off switches as well asprogramming and operating indicators may be included.

The control system 34 may be installed effectively behind or against theback of a recessed portion 38 of the electrical module 11. In theillustrated embodiment, the various control knobs 36 a, 36 b, 36 c, 36d, are used to control, respectively, the fan speed, the pump pressureand effective output, the rest time or wait time, sometimes referred toas dead time or delay time, in which the system is not operating, andthe run time duration of operation after a rest time, respectively.Thus, the overall passage of air, the amount of atomized or diffusedliquid, the down time, and the run duration, may all be controlleddirectly by the controller knobs 36. It should be noted herein that allreference numerals refer to specific items. Trailing letters followingreference numerals refer to specific instances of the item identified bythe reference numeral. Thus, the control knobs 36 a, 36 b, 36 c, 36 dcorrespond to specific instances of control knobs 36 generally. It isproper to refer the number alone to mean any or all, and to the numberwith the reference letter to identify a specific instance.

A pump housing 39 or pump housing portion 39 of the electrical module 11may house one or more pumps 40. These pumps may be as described in thepatents incorporated hereinabove by reference. In certain embodiments,the system 10 may operate with a single pump 40. In other embodiments,two pumps 40 may be operated in parallel to feed compressed air to thediffuser 46 of diffused liquid.

Considering the overall structure of the electrical module 11, a frontpanel 41 may actually include a pump housing portion 39 defining thespace in which the pumps 40 will reside, as well as a control portion 38or recessed portion 38 that will hold the control system 34, with itscontrol buttons 35 and knobs 36. Likewise, the display 37 is positionedin the recess portion 38. In the illustrated embodiment, a fan housing66 or fan housing portion 66 may fill out the remainder of the frontpanel 41. More will be discussed about the various constituentcomponents in addition to the panel 41 of the electrical module 11.

The handle 42 is secured by brackets 43 to the electrical module 11. Forexample, the electrical module 11 contains two or more motors. Thecontrollers also contain electrical components. Electrical componentsconstitute weight. Thus, additional strength, modularity, and supportare engineered into the electrical module 11. The handle 42 secured bybrackets 43 to the module 11, may lift the entire system 10. It may liftthe electrical module 11 out, once securements are removed that hold theelectrical module 11 inside the base 14 of the housing 12.

The pumps 40 provide compressed air, purified through the germicidalmodule 13 and filter module 19, typically as that principal flow of airpasses through the electrical module 11, cooling the electricalcomponents therein. Thus, the fan 64 in the fan housing 66 or fanhousing region 66, draws and drives the principal airflow. Nevertheless,a portion of the airflow is drawn off from the principal airflow to theone or more pumps 40 to pressurize a flow of air in a line 44 feedingthe diffusion module 45.

The diffusion module 45, may be thought of as the arrangement ofcomponents, or the housed region including all the components. Thus, inthe illustrated embodiment, the pressure line 44 feeds directly into adiffuser 46 or atomizer 46. This atomizer 46 has been discussed indetail in the patents incorporated herein by reference. The atomizer 46feeds a flow of atomized liquid droplets out through a nozzle 48.

At the opposite end from the nozzle 48, the diffuser 46 connects by wayof an adapter 50 to a reservoir 52. The reservoir 52 is supported by aseat 54 formed into, or attached to the housing 12. In the illustratedembodiment, the seat 54 is secured to the base portion 14 of the housing12. It may be supported by, or may be in contact with, the bottom orfloor of the door 16 of the housing 12 in certain embodiments.

The diffuser module 45 receives the principal flow of air passed fromthe electrical module 11 into the diffusion module 45. Thus, theprincipal flow of air, after warming itself by cooling the electricalmodule 11, is passed through the space of the diffuser module 45. Theflow of air past the nozzle 48 acts as an eductor drawing with itself,by a transfer of momentum thereto, the flow of compressed air. Entrainedtherein are the ultra-small-diameter liquid droplets from the nozzle 48as generated in the diffuser 46.

Various separation schemes, discussed in the patents incorporated hereinby reference, as well as elsewhere in this disclosure, identify theoperation of the diffuser 46 and the nozzle 48. Obtaining acomparatively very small droplet size of liquid droplets is herebydefined as obtaining a size thereof entrained into the flow of air outof the nozzle 48, and into the shroud 56 such that droplets persist forfrom about one to about 30 minutes in ambient air without settling out.Thus, the entire flow, including the portion drawn off by the pumps 40into the line 44, is recombined by eduction to enter the shroud 56.

That director 56 provides an exit 60 or outlet 60 from the system 10. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the shroud 56 may be rotated with respect tothe collar 15 in the housing 12 to provide directionality. Moreover, agrill 58 or louvers 58 may be formed at the outlet 60 to provide vanesto direct flow exiting the system 10 through the outlet 60 of the shroud56.

Practically, the germicidal capability of the system 10 is served in atleast two ways by the shroud 56 or director 56. The volumetric flow rateprovided by a fan 64 is selected to provide an exit velocity through theoutlet 60 that will project into the enclosed spaced serviced by thesystem 10. By maintaining a suitable volumetric flow rate (cubic feetper minute, cubic meters per second, or the like), the system 10 mayproject an entrainment jet from the exit 60, directed by the orientationof the housing 56 or shroud 56, and the louvers 58. Typically, twentyoutlet diameters of distance may still include or demonstrate velocityof the jet or plume being projected from the outlet 60.

For example, near the outlet 60, the jet or plume of air, laden withliquid droplets travels at a substantially faster velocity thansurrounding air, which is substantially still. According to the rules ofNewtonian momentum transfer, and the equations thereof, well understoodfluid mechanics, the jet will exchange momentum with the surroundingair, slowing the outer perimeter of the jet, and speeding up the engagedportion of the surrounding air. With additional distance away from theoutlet 60, the jet will expand in size, decrease in maximum velocity,and spread out its velocity distribution in space.

The plume will occupy more area, have less speed, and involve morevolume and mass of air. Thus, the diffuser 46 diffuses into theprincipal flow by an eduction scheme with the nozzle 48 inside thehousing 12. The educted flow of scented air passes out of the shroud 56,through the outlet 60, and continues to entrain ambient air in a jetextending many diameters away from the outlet 60. This may be actualdiameter, and may be characterized in equations using effectivediameter.

Effective diameter in fluid mechanics is referred to as a hydraulicdiameter. A hydraulic diameter is four times the area available forpassage of a fluid divided by the wetted perimeter, or the overallperimeter to which the passing fluid is exposed.

The diffuser module 45 may include, or operate cooperatively withwindows 62 or sight glasses 62. For example, the sight windows 62 orsight glasses 62 may include flexible, closed windows fitted into thecorners of the housing 12 to prevent the free flow of air in or outthrough the windows 62. Meanwhile, the windows 62 provide a sight glass62 for observation of the liquid level in the reservoir 52. The sightglasses 62 or windows 62 may be spaced at approximately one quarter, onehalf, three quarters, and full height, with respect to the shoulder ofthe reservoir 52. More or fewer of these sight windows 62 may be formedin the housing 12 as desired.

A fan 64 in the fan housing 66 may be of a suitable form, whether asquirrel-cage, centrifugal, screw, or rotary impeller type. It has beenfound that a rotary screw impeller, such as a pancake fan 64 servesadequately with minimum electrical power draw.

A hinge pin 49 may connect the base 12 to the cover 14. In theillustrated embodiment, an ejector pin 49 serves this function well byproviding a head that would normally function as the ejection portionitself, and the push rod acting as the hinge pin 49. By proper sizingand a suitable core pull, the ejector pin 49 serves as a hinge pin 49.

Referring to FIGS. 3-4, while continuing to refer generally to FIGS.1-19, the housing 12 of the system 10 may include a back portion or base14. A front portion or cover 16 operates as a door 16 opening thehousing 12 to expose the modules 11, 13, 19, 45 therewithin. In theillustrated embodiment, the components have been removed to show thestructure of the housing 12.

One may note that the apertures 20 or inlets 20 to which first stagefilters 22 are fitted, occupy corners of the housing 12. Likewise, thelock 18 requires a shape that causes an incursion into the interior ofthe housing 12. Nevertheless, the shape of the germicidal module 13accommodates the relief required to receive the lock 18.

A series of slots 67 includes slots 67 a, 67 b, 67 c, and may includeothers. The slots 67 receive the individual components. For example, theslot 67 a receives the germicidal module 13, fitting around an outer rimof the housing thereof. The slots 67 are formed by rails 68 or guides68. In the illustrated embodiment, the edges of the respectivecomponents 11, 13, 19, 45 may be formed to be received by the slots 67,as constrained by the rails 68 or guides 68. Thus, the rails 68 orguides 68 in combination with their respective modules 11, 13, 19, 45form somewhat of a seal urging all of the principal airflow to passtherethrough.

A detent 69 corresponding to certain slots 67 may provide capture of amodule 13, 19. Thus, in certain embodiments, the modules 11, 13, 19 maybe hand insertable, retained, and removable, all without tools. Anundercut in each of the detents 69 a, 69 b may be matched by a swell orexpansion in the dimensions of an outer rim of a module 11, 13, 19, thusproviding for ready insertion, snap to lock, and snap to unlock andremove.

A well 70 may encroach on the inner volume of the base 14. In theillustrated embodiment, the well 70 provides an external well 70 thatcan receive a power supply, plugs, other power connection devices, andthe like. Thus, the system 10 may be totally integrated to connect to apower source by a suitable means, including a transformer or other powersupply, without affecting the outer envelope, that is the outer volumeor the outer volumetric maxima, of the system 10. Mounted against awall, for example, the base 14 can contain in the well 70 a power supplyor plugs to a wall or line power source.

The well 70 may be provided with an aperture 71 for passing cables, asnecessary, through from outside the housing 12 inside to the controllersystem 34, pumps 40, and fans 64 in the electrical module 11 of thesystem 10.

Various bosses 72 may be formed, of any suitable length, as needed, suchas for receiving fasteners. Relieved regions 73 may represent surfacesflush with the outer surface of the housing 12, but recesses that passalmost through those outer surfaces. The relieved regions 73 may providea comparatively thinner wall in the housing 12 in order to readilyreceive a fastener penetrating therethrough.

For example, a user can punch the point of a screw through the relieveregion 73, due to the very thin wall. On the other hand, spurioussources or leaks of air may not spring up through unused holes or otherapertures in the walls of the housing 12. Thus, a variety of relieveregions 73 may be provided through which a user or installer canpuncture, typically the hand, a screw or other sharp pointed fastener.

Hinge lugs 74 may be formed in each of the base 14 and door 16 portionsof the housing 12. In one innovative design of a housing 12 inaccordance with the invention, the hinge lugs 74 are sized to match adiameter of an ejection pin 49 from an injection molding machine.Meanwhile, the drive shaft for driving an ejector pin 49 may have adiameter selected to be the diameter of a hole formed by a core pullthrough the hinge lugs 74. Thus, total alignment of the hinge lugs 74,may be formed by a core pull element that is removed before the mold isopened. Thus, assembly may be done by sliding a new ejector pin 49 down,as a hinge pin 49, through each of the hinge lugs 74, to make apiano-hinge type of attachment of the door 16 to the housing 12.

Slots 75 may be formed to receive the brackets 43 of the handle 42.Thus, the electrical module 11 may be released by removing fasteners,and may be picked up and taken out of the base 14, directly, withoutremoval of or from the handle 42. For example, in the illustratedembodiment, the brackets 43 are integrally and homogeneously formed withthe framing structure of the electrical module 11. They capture thehandle 42 during assembly. Thus, the handle 42 is integrated with theelectrical module 11, which may then be integrated with the overallhousing 12, and other modules 13, 19, 45.

In the illustrated embodiment, the rails 68 c may capture and seal aportion of the electrical module 11 securely to the base 14 of thehousing 12. The rails 68 c operate as guides about the slots 67 c formedby the rail sets 68 c. Each receives a matching edge of a portion of theelectrical module 11. Various apertures and fasteners (e.g. screws) maysecure the electrical module 11 into the case 12 or housing 12.

Typically, the weights of the germicidal module 13 and filter module 19typically weighing ounces, are such that the detents 69 exert sufficientforce to maintain them in place. In contrast, the electrical module 11may weigh several pounds owing to the motors, magnets, wire, and thelike contained therein. Accordingly, it is normally safer to have theelectrical module 11 firmly maintained within the slots 67 by fastenersthrough the walls of the housing 12, rather than simply by detents 69.

Referring to FIGS. 5-6, while continuing to refer generally to FIGS.1-19, a system 10 encased in a housing 12 may be carried by a handle 42for temporary duty. For example, a chambermaid, homeowner, or travelermay carry the system 10 by handle 42 from room to room for use. Feetsecured to the bottom of the housing 12 may support the system 10 on asurface, such as a desk, cabinet, counter, or the like in order to treata room.

A homeowner, a chambermaid, or the like may carry the system 10 by thehandle 42 into a room, activate it by powering it up from wall current,operating it according to the control system 34, for a temporary timeperiod. The effect may be one of providing a scenting of the enclosedarea, fumigation, extermination of microbes or bugs, or any combination.In other embodiments, apertures in the base 14 may receive fasteners tosecure the system 10 to a wall.

Meanwhile, from the exterior, the sight glass windows 62 may be used todetermine the condition of the reservoir 52, and its content level. Thelock 18 may be accessed for opening and closing the housing 12.Typically, the shroud 56 rotates in the collar 15, which may include akeeper securing to the housing 12 a rim or flange of the shroud 56. Thismaintains position, yet provides for rotary motion with respect to thehousing 12. Thus, the louvers 58 at the outlet 60 may be aimed in anysuitable direction.

Referring to FIG. 7, while continuing to refer generally to FIGS. 1-19,the germicidal module 13 may include a box 76 or housing 76 thatoperates as a frame 76 to contain the remaining components thereof. Inthe illustrated embodiment, for example, a baffle 23 defines a lightchamber 24 served by a reflector 23 on the concave side of the baffle 23formed on the convex side of the barrier 23. Typically, as illustrated,a ballast 78 may operate in conjunction with a light source 26 in thelight chamber 24. Typically, the light band is in the ultraviolet regionin order to provide the best, direct germicidal effect.

The catalytic screen 28 and the reflector 23 may include catalyticmetals to provide for catalysis of oxygen atoms from ambient air ascharged, ionic particles. Light irradiation in the ultraviolet bandwidthof the light source 26 may provide direct killing of microbes, such asbacteria and viruses. The catalysis of oxygen into oxygen ions at themetallic screen 28 provides oxygen ions, ozone, or both to reactchemically with the cells of microbes and viruses, thereby destroyingthem.

The keeper 80 is secured, and may be shaped to support or register thecatalytic screen 28 thereon, holding the catalytic stream 28 againstedges of the baffle 23 or reflector 23. The entire assembly may besecured by the keeper 80 within the rim or edge of the housing 76 of thegermicidal module 13. Securement may be by glue, fasteners, clips,screws, or the like.

The registers 77 space the baffle 23 or reflector 23 properly to clampor otherwise hold the catalytic screen 28 between a rail 79 or edge 79of the baffle element 23 and the keeper 80. The registers 77 thus fitagainst the edge 79 or rail 79 providing a reaction force for theclamping by the keeper 80. The keeper 80 is provided with an aperturesized to expose the majority of the catalytic screen 28 to the passageof air through the aperture and out of the germicidal module 13.

In certain embodiments, the germicidal module 13 may have a rim sized tosnap into a detent 69, at the end of traverse or sliding along a slot67. Thus, for example, a slot 67 a may receive a rim of a housing 76,which may then be snapped into a detent 69 a once in the properposition. Thus, the germicidal module 13 may be removed for service,replacement, repair, or the like. No tools are required.

In addition to viruses, bacteria, and the like, the germicidal module 13is also responsive to kill plant matter, such as mold spores, and thelike. In general, the photo catalytic oxidation process will oxidizeanything that is reactive, which includes substantially all livingsingle-cell matter and the like. The chemical reaction with oxygeneffectively destroys by oxidation, which is the same chemical effectobserved in rust, burning, or the like.

Referring to FIG. 8, the filter module 19 may include a slide 29 fittedto a slot 67 and capable of securement by a detent 69. Thus, a grill 31may secure a first filter medium 30 against the grill of the slide 29.The slide 29 may be thought of as the backbone, or base 29 of the filtermodule 19. On the opposite side of the slide 29, a second, usuallydifferent, filter medium 32 may be secured by another grill 33. Thegrills 31, 33 may be glued to the slide 29. In other embodiments, thegrills 31, 33 may be secured by sliding, snapping, clipping, or otherfastening mechanisms to the slide 29.

In the illustrated embodiment, the slide 29 includes a rim that isoffset, such that the grill thereof is closer to the grill 31 of thefirst filter medium 30, and an additional space is provided to receivethe other, second, filter medium 32. Thus, the grills 31, 33 mayactually be the same size, even identical, and yet a filter medium 30,32 need not be the same size. Thus, an offset of the grill in the slide29 may provide additional space for filter medium 32. In this way,folded media may operate as the second filter medium 32.

Referring to FIG. 9, the electrical module 11 is illustrated inisolation from the overall system 10. In the illustrated embodiment, asdiscussed hereinabove, the handle 42 is inherent or organic to theelectrical module 11. Brackets 43 may be secured to, and even moldedhomogenously with the appropriate portions of the frame 81.

The frame 81 represents the structural elements of the electrical module11. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the frame 81 or cage 81may include sides 82 or side panels 82. These may be mirror images ofone another. A top panel 83 may secure to the side panels 82, thusforming a more-or-less rectangular structure.

In the illustrated embodiment, the brackets 43 are molded homogenouslywith, from the same material at the same time, the side panels 82. Abottom panel 84 may secure to each of the side panels 82, at the bottomends thereof. A support 85 or sled 85 may support one or more pumps 40.The support 85 or sled 85 may ride on slides 86 or rails 86 formed ineach of the side panels 82. In this way, the entire pump assemblyconstituted by the pumps 40 on their sled 85 may be withdrawn, serviced,and replaced in the frame 81, by an individual user.

As a practical matter, the edges 87 of the side panels 82 may fit intothe slots 67 c between the rails 68 c in the base 14 of the housing 12.Rather than circular apertures, such as blind holes for receivingscrews, slots 88 may be formed in each of the panels 82, 83, 84 toreceive fasteners. By using self-tapping screws, for example, adequatestrength may be obtained, and each of the panels 82, 83, 84 may bemanufactured by a simple two-piece mold, with no core pulls required.

In selected embodiments, a slide 29 may be configured to have a reducedheight on one side. Thus, the slide 29 may slide into a fixture, or slot88 in the base 14 of the housing 12. Moreover, in certain embodiments,the slide 29 itself is not planar symmetrical along the axis of flow, ordistribution of the components, of FIG. 8. For example, as illustrated,the grill portion of the slide 29 is toward the left side, but anextension exists on the right side. Accordingly, a larger cavity iscreated between the slide 29, and the grill 33 than is formed betweenthe slide 29 and the grill 31. For example, in folded medium 32, such aspaper, folded fiberglass, or glass mats, additional axis space may berequired.

Accordingly, the cavity formed between the slide 29 and the grill 33 maybe larger than that of the cavity between the slide 29 and the grill 31.Thus, the filter medium 32 may be thicker by any preselected amount thanthe filter medium 30. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, thegrill of the slide 29 actually extends into the outer framing toward thegrill 31. In contrast, the grill 33 is spaced away therefrom and mayhouse a larger thickness of filter medium 32.

Referring to FIGS. 9-11, while continuing to refer generally to FIGS.1-19, the electrical module 11 may be secured together by fasteners,such as screws, rivets, or the like. Typically, screws embedded throughapertures in the various panels 82, 83, 84, may be received into slots88 in adjacent panels 82, 83, 84, for securing the frame 81 together.Typically, the components, such as a control system 34, display 37,pumps 40, and fans 64 may be secured to their respective panels 82, 83,84 by suitable fasteners in blind holes, slots, or the like.

However, threading a screw type fastener into a side of a flat orcomparatively flat object is not a problem. Such cavities may be moldedwith suitable draft in a two-piece injection mold or other moldingsystem. Thus, the end- or edge-oriented fasteners, which must penetratethe slots 88, would otherwise require core pulls. This effort may beavoided in the illustrated, manufactured product.

Referring to FIGS. 10-11, while continuing to refer generally to FIGS.1-19, the electrical module 11 is illustrated in exploded view showingdetails of each of the components therein. For example, the fan 64operates secured to one side panel. The knobs 36 of the controller 34,and the display 37, all on the front side thereof, fit through aperturesin the front panel 41.

The various bosses 72 may be formed, to the extent needed, at anysuitable length. They may have blind holes formed therein for receivingself-tapping screws or other fasteners, such as rivets. Thus, thesecurement of the various panels 82, 83, 84 may be complete, to oneanother and the securement of the components 34, 40, 64 thereto may alsobe effected.

Typically, the fan 64 will be protected by an open material in thecorresponding side panel 82. A large and open grill system may be formedwhere appropriate to encourage cooling air flow through the electricalmodule 11 and over all of the components therein. Meanwhile, the rails86 may be formed in the side panels 82 to receive the sled 85 supportingthe pumps 40.

Referring to FIG. 12, while continuing to refer generally to FIGS. 1-19,the diffuser module 45 includes several components, including a choiceof reservoirs 52. Again, trailing reference letters refer to specificinstances of the item identified by the reference number. Thus, it isproper to speak of any or all of the reservoirs 52, or of eachindividual reservoir 52 a, 52 b, 52 c, 52 d as appropriate.

In the illustrated embodiment, the diffuser module 45 may include or beincorporated within a region of the housing 12 that houses all thecomponents illustrated in FIG. 12. In one embodiment, a diffuser 46 maybe provided with an adapter 50. The adapter 50 may include a fixture 93or fitting 93 adapted to fit with, within, or without (outside) thediffuser 46.

A line 44 or tube 44 is shown for carrying liquid from the reservoir 52up through the line and into the diffuser 46. Similarly, the fitting 93fits or is adapted to connect, such as by threads, bayonet fitting,slot, compression fitting, or the like with the diffuser 46.

Likewise, the adapter 50 also includes a fitting 94 configured to fitwith a specific type of fitting 95 of a reservoir 52. In the illustratedembodiment, various sizes of reservoirs 52 a, 52 b, 52 c, 52 d areillustrated. The system 10, and the diffuser module 45, in particular,will accommodate any of the reservoirs 52 illustrated and more. Othershapes and sizes may also be used.

This is contrast to typical systems. Conventionally, canisters orcartridges contain liquids to be atomized. The diffuser 46, or whatevermechanism was used as an atomizer 46 is typically built into the cap ortop portion of the cartridge-type reservoir 52. As a result, customerselection of reservoir type, size, content, and operating system 10using such reservoir for delivery for atomized liquids, has beenlimited, constricted, and rendered much more expensive.

Sufficient expense is involved that most atomization systems forindustrial applications are not even sold. They are typically owned andmaintained by a supplier of the canister or cartridge style reservoir52. In the illustrated embodiment, a supply of adapters 50 can fit anycommon reservoir type 52. For example, one ounce, two ounce, eightounce, sixteen ounce, and thirty two ounce bottles of essential oils areavailable. Similarly, other bottle styles and sizes, made of variousmaterials, whether glass or polymer, are also available.

The adapters 50 in accordance with the invention adapt between thediffuser 46, and any suitable reservoir 52 requested by a customer.Therefore, the adapter 50 provides for a universal diffuser module 45,adaptable virtually to any source of liquids. Moreover, a user maysimply select a particular type of reservoir 52, use an adapter 50suitable for that reservoir 52, and then refill or re-purchase a genericreservoir 52 for use in the system 10.

The atomizer 46 may be fitted with a micro-cyclone 90. The micro-cyclone90 or cyclone 90 contains a spiral channel 91. The channel 91 beginsbelow a central plane 96, which is actually defined by a plate 96 formedthereby. In one embodiment, the micro-cyclone 90 is cast in a two-piecemold, as a comparatively thin walled casting. Vacuum forming may evenoperate to make such devices in certain embodiments.

As a vacuum formed or injection-molded part, the micro-cyclone 90 may beformed in two halves, each having a base plate 96 or plane 96 on whichhalf the spiraling channel 91 or spiral-shaped channel 91 is formed. Byremaining connected, at one small area or region, the two halves of themicro-cyclone 90 may be folded together, and snapped closed. Forexample, an aperture in one half, and a button or extension in the otherhalf provide a detent to tie down the two halves together. Thus, held onone side by a continuation of the flange 96 or plate 96, themicro-cyclone 90 folds in half to double up. It snaps together to formthe central plate 96, with a channel 91 spiraling from fully below theplate 96 to fully above it.

The entire cross-sectional area of the channel 91 may remain constantthroughout the entire spiraling circular route, from below the plate 96to above the plate 96. In the illustrated embodiment, it has been foundappropriate and best functioning to keep the size of the channel 91 atconstant area, and cross-section. Some atomized liquid particles,passing out through the channel 91 from the atomizer 46, pass into thechannel 91, and out the nozzle 48.

Any larger particles, or the comparatively larger particles in thestream of air, tend to smash and coalesce against the inside of theouter wall of the channel 91. They drip back into the atomizer 46, ordiffuser 46, to be re-atomized. Thus, only the comparatively smallestrange of droplets is passed out to the nozzle 48. This provides higherefficiency, more effectiveness, and eliminates collection of oildroplets on surfaces outside the system 10.

In certain embodiment, the micro-cyclone 90 may include a dam 92 thatbegins at the innermost radius of the upper opening of the channel 91.It then passes in spiraling, circular, arcuate shape around to the upperoutside wall of the channel 91. Eventually its lower edge rides up alongthat wall to the pre-selected height of the dam 92. The dam 92 typicallyends at a gap just before the wall of the channel 91 at which it begins,at its innermost diameter. The gap provides for the retrieval or returnof any oil that collects within the dam 92.

The dam 92 performs three significant functions. From its position inthe micro-cyclone 90, the dam 92 collects liquid, makes a constructivegap, and changes direction of the flow. The dam 92 serves to fit close(from 10 to 50 mils, usually a bout 20) to a corresponding dam withinthe nozzle 48. Thus, the air must pass through a slot between the dam92, and a corresponding dam extending down within the nozzle 48. Thus,an additional sharp change in direction tends to collect out overlylarge particles that are not small enough to remain entrainedsubstantially with the air at any velocity within the system 10.

The dam 92 also serves as a noise barrier. In fact, the micro-cyclone90, itself, by extending around an angle or included angle of about 330degrees (typically from about 250 to about 380, and most preferably lessthan 360 degrees of included angle, with a target at about 330 degrees)provides a barrier to the passage of internal noise. Thus, the diffuser46 operates extremely quietly compared to conventional diffusers.

In the illustrated embodiment, views of the micro-cyclone 90, moving ina clockwise direction, beginning in the upper right corner, show a topplan view, a right side elevation view, a bottom plan view, and a leftside elevation view. In the center, the micro-cyclone 90 is shown in itstwo halves, separated. In reality, the two halves are never separated bythat distance, since they are hinged together at one edge, and snappedtogether at an opposite edge of the plane 96 or plate 96.

In the illustrated embodiment, the bottle 52 or other type of reservoir52 may be fitted to a seat 54 for support. The seat 54 may be formed inor may be secured to the housing 12, such as by securement to the base14. Padding, by way of expandable, elastomeric, polymeric foam pads maybe provided to stabilize a reservoir 52 with respect to the housing 12,the seat 54, or both. Thus, by adding or subtracting pads, or simplycompressing pads, various sizes of reservoirs 52 may be fitted into thediffuser module 45.

The aperture, with the attachment penetrating therethrough, is visiblein the small circle in the upper right hand corner of the top plan view.In the bottom plan view, the stud fit into the aperture is on theopposite side of the plane 96 or flange 96 thereof. Meanwhile, the noisesuppression capability of the micro-cyclone 90 comes partly as a matterof the circuitous route, through the channel 91 and beyond. The plate 96or flange 96 blocks the propagation of sound waves directly out of thebarrel or central cavity of the diffuser 46. Similarly, by maintainingconstant effective lengths, cross-section, and diameter, whistling isreduced in the channel 91. By diameter is meant the effective diameter.The cross-sectional area, long and short dimensions, shape, which tendsto be a rounded rectangular shape and so forth, are maintainedsubstantially constantly throughout the entire circular spiral rise ofthe channel 91 in the micro-cyclone 90.

Referring to FIGS. 13-18, the design of the apparatus 10 is viewed froma front elevation, rear elevation, right end elevation, left endelevation, top plan, and bottom plan view. In the illustratedembodiment, various apertures 98, 99 may be provided. For example,certain apertures 98 may be formed to provide a location for extendingfasteners through the wall of the housing 12 in order to secure selectedcomponents of the various modules 11, 13, 19, 45 within the housing 12.Other apertures 99 are formed to receive feet that will support thehousing 12 and the system 10 on a surface.

Referring to FIG. 19, a process 100 in accordance with the invention maybegin outside the system 10 by drawing 102 a quantity or flow volume ofambient air from a treated, enclosed, habitable space. Typically, upondrawing 102 a quantity of air through the inlet 20, filtering 104 iscompleted at a highest (e.g. largest, grossest) size consideration byfilters 22 or filter media 22 positioned in the inlet 20. Typically,foam filter media backed by keepers, may be deformed into the cornershape of the housing 12 in order to fit snuggly within the inlets 20.

Following this outermost, largest-particle-size filtering 104, exposure106 to a germicidal module 13 may occur. Exposure 106 may includeexposure to ultraviolet light, ozone, oxygen ions, or the like. In theillustrated embodiment, exposure 106 may include all three. That is,ultraviolet light provides a direct kill of microbes, while catalyticscreens 28 may provide ionization of oxygen for the formation of oxygenradicals and ozone to react with and kill microbes. Catalysis 108 mayoccur on the reflector 23 or baffle 23 of the germicidal module 13, butwill typically occur in about the catalytic screen 28 as a result of theultraviolet light or ultraviolet irradiation.

Filtering 110 by a filter medium 30 is second in the overall flow of theprincipal flow through the system 10. It may be followed by filtering112 through an additional, typically more restrictive, filter medium 32.Bypassing 114 may include drawing the majority of the principal flowcoming through the inlets 20 and filter module 19 into the electricalmodule 11.

Meanwhile, a flow of air passing into pumps 40 is drawn from theprincipal flow, and pressurized to flow into a line 44 driving adiffuser 46. Thus, bypassing 114 is substantially supporting the cooling116 of the components within the electrical module 11. For example, theactual majority of airflow typically bypasses the diffuser 46. It firstpasses into the electrical module 11, cooling 116 the principalelectrical components, such as the fan 64, pump 40 or pumps 40, and thecontrol system 34 with its associated electronics. It then flows aroundthe outside of the diffuser 46.

The fan 64 provides for the drawing 102 of the principal flow of air.Meanwhile, the fan also draws the principal flow of air over thecomponents in the electrical module 11. Accordingly, the cooling 116 isdriven by the fan 64. Likewise, by passing through the fan 64, thebypass flow is compressed 118 to a certain much lesser extent by the fan64. A pressure rise across the fan 64 is a result of the work put intothe airflow by the fan 64. Thus, the fan 64 slightly compresses the flowof the bypass air.

Induction 120 by the pumps 40 draws air from the principal flow,typically upstream from the fan 64, into the diffuser 46. In certainembodiments, the flow may be drawn from an area downstream of the fan,thus providing additional pressure rise or a net higher gauge pressureas an output of the pumps 40.

Compression 118 by the pumps 40, or a single pump in certainembodiments, is completed before passing an output from the pumps 40into the line 44. Typical operational capacities of the pumps may beabout 1.7 PSI (12 kpa) gauge or pressure increase in the flow.Approximately 0.12 CFM (3.5 liters per minute) flow through the twopumps, and out the controlling orifice of the diffuser 46. A single pumpwill produce approximately the same pressure rise, but will reduce thevolumetric flow rate to about 0.09 CFM (2.5 liters per minute). Thecompression 118 results in a flow of air that induces 120 or causesatomization.

Typically, the pumps 40 may compress air by about 1 to about 3 poundsper square inch (7 kpa to 21 kpa). However, it has been found that a setpoint of about 1.7 pounds per square inch (12 kpa) rise (gauge pressureabove atmospheric) is appropriate through the pumps 40 to the nozzle 48of the diffuser 46.

Typically, atomization 124 will occur by eduction, wherein the flow ofcompressed air over or near an opening drawing from the reservoir 52,will impart momentum to the fluid (liquid). This strips away liquid,thus drawing more liquid out of the tube, and atomizing 124 that liquidinto a range of small particles. As a practical matter, in oneembodiment, a feed line may receive a flow of comparatively higher speedair passing over the top thereof, thus stripping liquid from the feedline, and imparting a momentum transfer, with a corresponding draw inpressure. Thus, the liquid droplets are entrained within the air stream,thrown toward a nozzle cone, and ejected out a small aperture in thepoint of that cone against an opposite wall.

Atomization 124 as described is completed by an eductor. The eductor mayoperate in a classical concentrical, collinear, or parallel patharrangement. Alternatively, eduction may be done by one flow transverseto another, as described. The air flow thereby transferring momentum tothe liquid available at a surface, is stripping droplets away from thesurface. Movement of liquid calls for replacement liquid in the tube.The eductor may eject out a nozzle sized and shaped to match the plumeof the eduction air flow.

Separation 126 may occur by various events. In one presentlycontemplated embodiment, the micro-cyclone 90 described hereinabove fitsjust above a nozzle, and receives liquid droplets entrained in thecompressed airflow.

The micro-cyclone 90 typically requires a spiraling flow, flowingtangentially with respect to a radius and circumference of the diffuser46. Meanwhile, the eductor operates to eject along a radius of thediffuser module 46 or the outer housing 46 of the diffuser module 45.Thus, the change in direction results in any large particles beingthrown against an opposite wall by the eductor. Only the comparativelysmaller particles remain with the air, pass up through the spiral pathof the micro-cyclone 90. Moreover, the direct impact of droplets againstan opposing wall results in an absolute and total change of direction.Change of direction should be at least 90 degrees, and will typically becloser to 180 degrees.

The momentum and energy transfer from the wall to the droplets mayresult in additional atomization of particles. The comparatively largerparticles from this separation stage pass down through a passage intothe reservoir 52 for recycling. Those that are sufficiently small toremain entrained pass into the micro-cyclone 90.

As described hereinabove, the micro-cyclone 90 then takes the dropletsremaining in the airflow, and subjects them to centrifugal forces, thusthrowing the comparatively larger particles of this distribution (sizerange) remaining in the entrained flow against the walls of themicro-cyclone channel 91. Subsequently droplets striking a solid surfacecoalesce and flow back down the sloping channel 91, into the reservoir52 below.

Ultimately, only the comparatively smallest range of particles initiallyentrained in the airflow can eventually pass into and through themicro-cyclone 90, and past the gap between the dam 92 and acorresponding dam 92 in the nozzle 48.

Following atomization 124 as described, separation 126 in the diffuser46 itself and later in the micro-cyclone 90 fixture inside the diffuser46, as well as passing over the dam 92 through a narrow slot between thedam 92 and the micro-cyclone 90 and the dam 92 in the nozzle 48, theeduction 128 by the principal flow occurs. Eduction 128 occurs as theprincipal flow, flowing through the portion of the housing 12 thathouses the diffuser module 45, passes by the nozzle 48, entraining theoutput of the nozzle 48.

The nozzle 48 may be any suitable shape, and may be straight, flat,tapered, non tapered, or the like. Typically, the eduction by theprincipal flow past the nozzle 48 further mixes and entrains thedroplets and their carrier airstream from the pumps 40 into the shroud56 toward the outlet 60 of the system 10. Following eduction 128,diffusion 130 occurs by momentum transfer between the flow of airproceeding from the nozzle 48, with its entrained droplets of the liquidfrom the reservoir 52, and the principal airflow. Eventually, the shroud56 provides ducting 132 of the flow and the shroud 56 in combinationwith the louvers 58 provide directing 134 of that flow into theenclosed, habitable space. Again, a top cap on the shroud 56 may operateto impart a final change of direction, and may be tapered to facilitatea smoother turn by the airflow.

Ultimately, proper selection of a liquid for reservoir 52 to be used inthe system 10 may result in antisepsis, disinfectant, extermination,fumigation, or germicidal activity by the fog or micro dropletsthemselves in the enclosed space. For example, various antibiotics,antiseptics, antimicrobial devices, and simply certain essential oilscause germicidal and fumigation activity in the enclosed space treatedby the system 10.

In certain embodiments, the shroud 56 may be replaced with aconventional 90-degree elbow of polymeric, e.g., polyvinyl fluoride(PVC) pipe. The shroud 56 has been sized, such that the collar 15 willreceive a pipe elbow that has been provided with an O-ring-type of cutin order that it may be captured by the collar 15. Thus, the system 10may feed treated air directly through an elbow 56, rather than a shroud56, into a heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system.

In certain embodiments, dual, silent pumps, as described in U.S. Pat.No. 8,047,813, incorporated hereinabove by reference, may be used insingle or multiple arrangements. A support 85 for mounting the pumps maybe mounted on the rails 86 of the frame 81. A single pump 40 willprovide an output of about 0.09 CFM (2.5 liters per minute) at about 1.7PSI (12 kpa). In certain embodiment, a purchaser may purchase a system10 absent two pumps 40, and use a single pump, with about two thirds thevolume, and the same pressure for operation of the diffuser 46. Later,to improve capacity, an additional pump may be added to the system 10.Similarly, with the filtration module 19, improved filters may beincluded, and the fan 64 may be upgraded for a higher pressuredifferential. Thus, smaller mesh sizes may be used in the filtration 30,32 with an upgrade in the power of the fan 64.

In some embodiments, the germicidal module 13 may be replaced withanother or a different type of filter module 19. Thus, the expense ofoperation, as well as the expense of the module 13 may be eliminated ifsuch a feature is deemed unnecessary. Thus, additional filtering, or nofiltering, other than the original filter module 19 may be installed.

The fan system 64 is modular and may be changed out to alter power orvolume flow rate capacity. The filter modules 19 may be swapped out,added, or changed. The germicidal module 13 may be eliminated, replacedwith the filter module 19, or the like.

Similarly, at the opposite end of the system 10, the liquid reservoir 52may be sized to fit virtually any practical demand. The adapters 50 maybe selected to adapt to different sizes, manufacturers, or other sourcesof reservoirs 52, or the content liquid therein. Likewise, users mayselect their own reservoir 52 and fill according to their own bulkpurchases of liquids. Thus, the system 10 is entirely modular at thebehest of the user. In certain embodiments, the germicidal module 13 maybe disabled in order to simply use the system 10 for its post-eductiongermicidal and aroma effects of the diffuser 46. In other embodiments,the filter module 19 may still be absent or used as the first, last,only, combined filter. Thus, the initial filter 22 may suffice for asystem 10 that is installed principally as a germicidal fogging machineto disperse or otherwise atomize a germicidal agent from the reservoir52.

In certain embodiments, the micro-cyclone 90 may include a registrationnotch designed to register the micro-cyclone 90 in a plane of the flange96. Thus, the flange 96 has a notch that registers, typically with theincoming pressurized line 44. Accordingly, this registration places theinlet or opening of the channel 91 above, but facing in the samedirection as the injection or ejection nozzle feeding from the line 44.

The result is that the spray atomized from the initial eductor andnozzle must first proceed toward the opposite wall, internal wall, ofthe atomizer 46, change direction after smashing into the wall in thecomparatively largest particles, and proceed along the wall in acircumferential direction in order to come back around at least 180degrees. A design point is about 230 degrees to arrive at the opening tothe channel 91. The atomized liquid droplets in the entrainedpressurized air must travel forward to a wall, change direction by atleast a 90 degree angle, proceed about 180 degrees around thecircumference of the interior of the atomizer 46, rising to enter intothe entrance of the channel 91.

Thus, a first stage separation occurs outside the nozzle 48 ascomparatively large droplets coalesce against a film of oil or otherliquid from the reservoir 52, collecting on the wall opposite theeductor inside the diffuser 46. A second stage separation occurs as themicro-cyclone 90 throws off the next smallest, comparatively largerparticles still entrained in the compressed airflow during their transitthrough the micro-cyclone 90. The third stage of separation is thechange in direction, and constriction of flow in passing over the dam 92and through a slot between the dams 92 of the micro-cyclone 90 and thefinal eduction nozzle 48, in order to enter that nozzle 48.

Significantly, each of the first, second, and third separation processesoperates in a significant length of less than an 0.4 inch (1centimeter). Moreover, the shortest significant length for each istypically on the order of about one eighth inch, in the narrowerdimension of the micro-cyclone 90 channel 91, and in the gap of about0.060 inches (1.5 mm) between the dams 92 in the micro-cyclone 90 andthe nozzle 48. Thus, each significant length, or maximum significantlength of the various separation processes is successively smaller thanits predecessor. From about ⅜ inch to about ⅛ inch by about 5/16 inchwidth and height dimensions on the channel 91, to a 0.06 inches (1.5 mm)gap on the final separator.

Moreover, each of the first, second, and third separation processesinvolves a change of direction. First, about 230 degrees, then a changeof direction of about 330 degrees, and then two changes of direction,each of about 90 degrees, actually constituting a full change of 90degrees to horizontal, followed by 90 degrees to vertical.

In a system 10 in accordance with the invention, the liquid in thereservoir 52 is not contaminated because the air drawn into the air pumphas been purified, including all air through the fan 64, around thereservoir 52, and sent out into the room. Microbes, such as bacteria andviruses are eliminated before air reaches the compressor or fan. Thus,the system 10 may purify, filter, compress, diffuse, fan force,fumigate, in substantially any combination of such features.

Conventional systems recirculate liquids in ways that can contaminatetheir reservoirs. Here, only the comparatively smallest particles aredischarged, those that remain airborne for from about one to about 30minutes. Many will persist for an hour, and the minimum persistence timemay be increased to five, ten, or twenty minutes. Only these smallestatomized particles leave the bottle, while the heavier particlesrecirculate. This is an even greater advantage if the liquid itself isnot a germicide, wherein microbes could propagate.

Users may make an arbitrary selection of liquids, absent conventionalcontracts for proprietary liquids and cartridges, with captive customersand monopolistic profit margins. Any user or supplier may use the system10, buy or sell any diffusable liquid, purchase or rent the diffusingsystem, buy or sell their own oils or other liquids, without beinglocked into a contract for any constituent of operation. Virtually anygeneric, refillable bottle may be used with any generic liquid suitablefor atomizing.

The Air purifying industry may use the system 10 to add fragrance topre-cleaned air, and may supply its own filter media. The Fragranceindustry can use the system 10 to fill a room with a selected aromaticmaterial without contamination over long term use. The essential oilindustry can use the system to provide health benefits (e.g., likeeucalyptus oil, citrus, etc.), a pleasant atmosphere, or aromatherapyfor wellbeing. Agricultural enterprises can use it for animal husbandry,such as milking parlors, barns, poultry coops for chickens, turkeys,game hens, and the like, horse stables, and the like.

Individual patients may use it for respiratory care, such as asthma orallergy control, purifying air, adding therapeutic amounts ofdecongestants like eucalyptus or other liquids, distributing masking orgermicidal aromas, or the like. In general the system may be controlled,programmed, or both, as described to deliver a therapeutic amount of asuitable liquid for any of the foregoing uses, at a rate selected foreffectiveness, economy, safety, or other technical criterion. A user mayselect the liquid, the air flow rate (bulk or bypass volumetric flowrate), the diffusion rate (mass flow rate) of liquid atomized duringoperation, the wait time between diffusion operation, the operation timewith each diffusion on-off cycle, as well as schedule and calendaring.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms withoutdeparting from its purposes, functions, structures, or operationalcharacteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in allrespects only as illustrative, and not restrictive. The scope of theinvention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims, rather thanby the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaningand range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within theirscope.

What is claimed and desired to be secured by United States LettersPatent is:
 1. A system operable as a diffuser, the system comprising; areservoir, operable to contain a liquid and defining axial, radial, andcircumferential directions mutually orthogonal to one another; a firstchamber and a second chamber separated by a wall therebetween as abarrier to flow directly therebetween in the axial direction; a nozzleoperably connected to introduce into the first chamber a flow comprisingdroplets of the liquid, drawn from the reservoir, entrained in air; anda separator, comprising a channel, simultaneously progressing axiallyand circumferentially through the wall to conduct the flow from thefirst chamber into the second chamber.
 2. The system of claim 1, whereinthe channel is curved.
 3. The system of claim 1 wherein the channelprogresses in a spiral path through the wall.
 4. The system of claim 1,wherein the channel comprises an entrance opening in the first chamberand an exit opening in the second chamber.
 5. The system of claim 1,wherein the channel has a cross section of substantially constant area.6. The system of claim 5, wherein the channel encloses a solitary,contiguous space, conducting all of the droplets.
 7. The system of claim1, wherein the channel comprises an entrance end in the first chamberand an exit end in the second chamber, the channel being shaped to passcomparatively smaller droplets with the flow out through the exit end,coalesce comparatively larger ones of the droplets against the channelas a recaptured liquid, and drain the recaptured liquid back to thereservoir.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the nozzle forms a portionof an eductor.
 9. The system of claim 1, comprising the nozzle operableas an atomizer connected to draw the liquid from the reservoir into theflow while injecting the flow into the first chamber.
 10. The system ofclaim 1 wherein the channel is shaped to divide the droplets intocomparatively larger droplets and comparatively smaller droplets bycentripetal force on the flow by the channel.
 11. The system of claim 1wherein the channel curves through a first angle in a circumferentialdirection and a second angle in an axial direction.
 12. The system ofclaim 11, wherein the channel has a cross sectional area that remainssubstantially constant between the first chamber and the second chamber.13. The system of claim 1, comprising a pump as a source of the flow.14. The system of claim 1, wherein the nozzle and a surroundingstructure are shaped to draw the liquid from the reservoir in responseto the flow through the nozzle.
 15. The system of claim 1, comprising amotor, driving a pump, and a controller adjustable to control at leastone of a duration of operation and a duration of deactivation betweenperiods of operation of the motor.
 16. The system of claim 1, whereinthe separator and flow are coordinated to release droplets having aneffective diameter of from about 1 micron to about 5 microns.
 17. Asystem comprising: a reservoir, shaped to contain a liquid providing ascent and to define axial, radial, and circumferential directionsmutually orthogonal to one another; an atomizer operably connected todraw the liquid from the reservoir and entrain the liquid as dropletsinto a flow of air; a first chamber, a second chamber, a wall preventingdirect contact therebetween, and a channel; the channel, having anentrance in the first chamber, an exit in the second chamber, and alength therebetween greater than a distance directly between the firstchamber and the second chamber; the channel, operable as a separator ofthe droplets by progressing simultaneously in the axial direction andthe circumferential direction in a shape effective to separate thedroplets into comparatively smaller droplets carried into the secondchamber with the flow and comparatively larger droplets coalesced as arecovered liquid passing back through the entrance toward the reservoir.18. The system of claim 17, wherein the channel progresses uniformly atan angle in the axial direction along a majority of the length.
 19. Thesystem of claim 17, wherein the channel is shaped to have asubstantially constant cross sectional area between the first chamberand the second chamber.
 20. A system operable as a diffuser, the systemcomprising: a reservoir to contain a liquid and define axial, radial,and circumferential directions; a pump connected to provide a flow ofair; an atomizer, connected to draw a portion of the liquid from thereservoir, in response to the flow passing therethrough, divide theportion into droplets, and introduce the droplets into a first chamber;the first chamber, a second chamber, and a wall therebetween, acting asa barrier against direct contact between the first chamber and thesecond chamber; a channel, operable as a separator, having a lengthgreater than a distance directly between the first and second chambers,and passing simultaneously radially and axially through the wall; andthe channel, shaped to separate the droplets into comparatively smallerdroplets passing with the flow into the second chamber and comparativelylarger droplets coalescing and passing back into the first chamber.